OverviewWe replaced the machinery that raises and lowers the southbound SR 529 bridge drawspan over the Snohomish River in Everett. The movable parts, called trunnions, look like steel axles. The axles had developed small cracks from the wear and tear of raising and lowering 250 tons of counterweight with each drawspan opening. If the cracks continued to grow, the trunnions would have eventually failed and left the bridge drawspan unable to open and close for maritime traffic. By replacing these movable parts, we ensured the bridge drawspan will continue operating safely and reliably for maritime traffic and drivers. The same work was done on the northbound span in 2006.

Improves Safety
Replacing the old movable parts keeps the structure safe and functioning for drivers and maritime traffic.

Protects Environment
The towers of this bridge serve as a nest home of peregrine falcons. Although no falcons have nested there in recent years, by keeping the bridge in good working order, we ensure the structure remains available to nesting falcons and other birds.

Economic Incentive
Replacing the axles, wheels and dozens of cables that raise and lower the massive drawspan counterweights reduces maintenance costs and saves tax dollars. Additionally, some of the parts we removed can be rehabilitated and preserved for future use.

Maintaining the bridge is also important to the economy. Millions of dollars worth of goods and materials are shipped on the Snohomish River each year. Ensuring the drawspan continues to open and close reliably helps maintain this vital economic link. The drawspan opens an average of about 600 times per year for maritime traffic.

Partnerships & Cooperation
WSDOT worked closely with the US Coast Guard, the local maritime industry and the cities of Everett and Marysville to successfully complete this project. The Coast Guard has jurisdiction over all waterways and requires access to be maintained at all times. The local maritime industry helped coordinate arrivals and departures to reduce the stress on the old drawspan machinery prior to replacement. The cities of Everett and Marysville worked with WSDOT on traffic and detour issues during the multiple overnight and weekend closures as work progressed.